William "Bill" Binford

William (Bill) Lutze Binford passed away on Friday, March 1st, 2024 in La Grande, Oregon. Son of Lindley Charles Binford and Dorothy Lutze Binford, he was born in Portland, Oregon on September 22, 1938. Bill's parents moved the family (including brothers John and Lin) to Mexico City for several years when he was four years old and he grew up speaking Spanish and English fluently. Bill graduated from Harvard University in June of 1961. His years of living in Mexico as a child served him in his career as he worked for the Peace Corps in Ecuador and Guatemala as well as for the Agency for International Development and various US government contractors in Bolivia, Costa Rica, and The Dominican Republic.

Bill lived in Halfway, Oregon for many years, meeting and marrying Diana Glynn in 2010. They moved to La Grande in 2019 to be closer to family. Bill delighted his friends and family with his guitar playing and singing, participating in talent shows in Halfway, Oregon into his early 80's. He was a voracious reader and loved the outdoors  and taking his children on long rides out in the countryside in Guatemala.  He was an intelligent, charming, and witty man with a sarcastic and fun sense of humor.

Bill is survived by his current wife, Diana Binford, and her children Jerry and Troy Glynn. Bill and his first wife Martha Butler (d. 2011) had three children; William L. Binford Jr. (d. 2010), Richard S. Binford, and Katherine C. Binford. Eugenia Saenz de Tejada and Bill were married in Guatemala and had one daughter; Anna Michelle Binford. Bill subsequently married Carole Peacock and adopted her son William H. Peacock (now Binford). Vicky Ponce and Bill were married for several years in Guatemala. He will be fondly remembered by his brother Lin Binford, grandchildren, Patrick, Becca, Amanda, Raquel, Andres, three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, and in-laws.  He was a much married and well-loved man and will be greatly missed by all!

For those who would like to make a memorial donation in memory of Bill may do so to P.E.E.F. (Pine Eagle Education Fund) which enriches students lives with culture and music through Tami's Pine Valley Funeral Home & Cremation Services PO Box 543 Halfway, Oregon 97834,  Online condolences may be shared at www.tamispinevalleyfuneralhome.com